Ex-scientist turned master brewer Bob Dromeshauser founded a small brewery and homebrew supply shop in 1994. Today, LSB is one of the most beloved breweries in the Northland and continues to specialize in producing ales from the English and German tradition from their home brewing days. The Kayak Kölsch and Sir Duluth Oatmeal Stout highlight the local favorites. Their taproom has a very literal “hidden treasure” feel to it, tucked into the corner of the actual production floor. Tours are available on a first come, first-served basis.

Launching in 2013, it didn’t take long for the two married couples who run Bent Paddle to grow into the Northern brewing giants they now are. This beer can be found virtually everywhere but a trip to the official taproom, the Bent Tap, is well worth visiting. Tours take place every Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. and Brewasana Yoga classes are offered twice a month.

Former Fitger’s brew master Dave Hoops started up his own shop in Canal Park in June of 2017 and it’s no small shop. The beer hall is the second largest in the state behind only Surly’s palatial domain. The massive space still provides a comforting North woods feel with original wood columns made of Douglas fir from the Pacific Northwest and several different rooms offering intimate settings. Quality and variety will be in abundance at the destination beer. There are 30 tap lines in the taproom and Hoops has plans to use them all.

Canal Park Brewing’s motto is “Beer from a place you won’t forget” and this beautiful location and taproom brings these words to life. A year-round patio providing the scenic backdrop of Lake Superior promise to make every visit memorable. Tours are available Friday-Sunday and the $12 beer geek package nets a Canal Park pint glass and three tasting beers in addition to the tour. Yard games and a fire pit provide plenty of warmth, since it’s always colder by the lake.

With a history that dates back all the way to the 1850s, Fitger’s brewing has long been a staple in Duluth’s brewing community. Their current Brewhouse opened at their massive facility in 1995 and produces more than 2,500 barrels of 100 different varieties of brews each year. Visit with an empty stomach as well, the Brewhouse offers some of the best selections in local food (see Wild Rice Burger, yum) and offers live music five nights a week. Tours are available on Saturdays at 2:00 and 3:30 p.m.

Located 30 minutes North on the fresh coast is Castle Danger Brewery in Two Harbors, MN and it is well worth the drive. Their classic Cream Ale has garnered massive popularity in Minnesota and the rest of the tap list does not disappoint. Other popular selections include the 17-7 Pale Ale and the Ode IPA. The taproom itself is a beauty and sits right on Lake Superior. Live music and food trucks are available on Fridays and tours are offered on Saturdays.